I am afraid that the "buy one, get one free" system of marketing does not operate in the auto spares industry.
The first factor would be pricing no doubt, closely followed by warranty If a starter is $20 but only has a 90 day warranty or another starter is $50 but has a lifetime warranty one would have to make the judgment call based on how long they expect their vehicle to last, how long they expect to own it, etc. The $20 starter would probably outlast the car. But if the lifetime warranty was only $5 more, it would probably be worth it.
No need to fix the starter, just goto NAPA or Autozone and get a remanufactured one.
Probably around $50
$48 for a remanufactured. both motors that year share the same starter.
First remove the battery cables from the battery. Remove the electrical connections to the starter and label for replacement. There are 3 bolts - 13mm. The bottom bolt is also the ground terminal, therefore you will need a deep socket for that bolt. The other two are accessable ideally with about a 7" extension to your socket wrench. The top bolt is on the top of the starter and I could fit my hand up there to feel it and place the socket. The 3rd bolt is between the bottom and top bolts. Remove the 3 bolts and the starter falls right out. I replaced with a remanufactured, lifetime warranty starter from Pep Boys for about $120.
The starter solenoid is located on the starter. It would be more cost-effective to have the entire starter replaced with a good remanufactured unit on this application.
Remanufactured starter and labor, aprox $250.00
Around $110 for new, $90 for remanufactured,
NO
Starter prices are about $150 - a little lower for remanufactured and lots higher ($200) for Motorcraft brand newSee "Related Questions" below for more
First replace the cheap part, the starter relay. It is attached to the short positive battery cable; clean cables too. If no luck and your battery is good, replace your starter with a remanufactured one; don't try to fix an old starter.
Yes, installing aftermarket equipment such as a remote car starter will void a car warranty. For details on you car's warranty consult either the owner's manual, or the car manufacturer's website.